Denise Gordon's Last Message Of 2015

KENYA-based US Soulful Jazz and Blues singer-songwriter, Denise Gordon, has her ultimate last message to her fans and friends.

She says: "I don't know what to think of 2015. It was a reflective year with the loss of my mother Naomi Gordon in April. Losing a mother is so much different than losing a father. Being without both parents is a milestone that leads to no celebration. I do not qualify for orphan status, but it was a strange kind of lonely."
"As I prepare for my New Year's Eve performance at the exclusive Muthaiga Club, I was on YouTube looking for the music we are to perform. One such song is Try Jah Love by Third World. There were so many RIPs in the comments and learned that the lead singer Bunny Rugs passed away last year to cancer. I was so hurt to know I would never hear that voice again live. This year, I also lost a friend and musical mentor Jean Papy Safari from Rwanda. I initiated my first note with him in the Piano Bar Band. My first duet of Endless Love was performed with him. Gone way too soon."

"New Beginnings, the TV drama I am featured in just wrapped on shooting Season 3 and was trending in the number one position in Kenya this past weekend... Woop woop #NewBeginningsKE! Karaoke has been on hiatus this month, but we will be back with a bang in the new year."
"This month, I hired a PR consultant. I said I needed to get strategic to weather the ebbs and flows of my Musical journey. They have done market research to devise a communication strategy to attract more of the likes of you! I have had certain encounters that has made me want to out and out quit. But Blaze told me, that is the time to regroup and renew. I visited the sacred gardens to meditate and pray on it and I keep looking for the signs that give me direction."

"I am wishing you joy, health and prosperity!"

Jamaica's Kristine Alicia Arrives In Kenya For Groove Party (Pictures)

JAMAICAN-born reggae artiste, Kristine Alicia, and her manager arrived in Kenya yesterday ahead of this year’s Safaricom Groove Party concert. 

“I’m excited to be performing in Nairobi for the first time, and I can already feel the energy and excitement that will fill the stadium on New Year’s Eve,” said Kristine Alicia. 

“I’ll be doing my rehearsals over the next couple of days and can’t wait to perform some of my best loved songs including Your Lady and Around & Around, and I’m looking forward to delivering an electric show alongside Omari and the Kenyan performers.”

In addition to the international artistes revellers will be treated to performances by DJ Krowbar, DJ Sadic and the Gifted DJs, alongside 2015 Groove Award winners Pitson, Evelyn Wanjiru, Eunice Njeri and Loise Kim, renowned musicians Mercy Masika, Sarah K., Gloria Muliro, Ben Githae, Ruth Matete and Amos & Josh among others.

Also on stage will be Kenya’s own gospel bands AFLEWO, Bethu and the Highest Praise Band and Threat Band, who will lead the crowd in an eclectic mix of praise and worship fusing international and local gospel hits.

The annual event will take place at the Safaricom Stadium in Kasarani on December 31, from 4pm until dawn.

Tiwa Savage's New Jam Criticised

TIWA Savage's new song, African Waist, has received both sweet and nasty reviews.

We have some people who feel that Savage (and Don Jazzy) failed "terribly" in this song, with their efforts to portray an "African waist". 
In my own opinion, I think the audio (with Jazzy producing) is great! The video is well directed, colour is on-point, but... The "African waist" is exactly not visible!
But I like the site of the KENYAN flag in the video.
See it below...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLT2JIPBuRI

Miggy Champ Added Weight In 2015!

SO, dancehall artiste, Miggy Champ, has added weight?

Yes, the Nyaunyo hit-maker is glad that he added one kilogramme of body mass this year! One kilogramme people... One full Kg.
This is what he wrote on Facebook on Wednesday: "2015 hijakuwa mwaka mbaya saaaana. Atleast I added a KG.. Glory be to HIM!"

This guy is simply unbelievable!!!

Xpat Accuses Gabu Of Defrauding Him Sh10,000

RAPPER Xpat Mkwanja has accused P-Unit's rapper Buganya of allegedly defrauding him Sh10,000.

Over two months ago, Xpat told SpiceRead, he reached out to the rapper (formerly known as Gabu) to have him feature in his new track titled Nyama Kwa Nyama. He said that Gabu agreed to “drop” a verse in the song, but not before he was paid Sh20,000.

Unable to raise the wholesome amount, Xpat told him that he would pay him Sh10,000 first and then “hustle” for him the rest of the amount later. According to the transaction documents availed to us, Xpat did send Sh10,000 to one Gabriel Kagundu on September 28, 2015, which he insists he sent to Gabu as per the agreement.

However, Gabu failed to show up for the recording but told Xpat to clear the balance first. After some pull and push, Xpat decided to record the song without him. His demands to Gabu to refund him his money fell on deaf ears.
When reached for a comment, Gabu laughed off the issue saying: “No comment.”

Guinness Made Of Black Jamhuri Weekend Party

DURING the Jamhuri weekend, the world’s leading stout, Guinness, hosted  a party for the consumers at Club Porkies and Bamboo in Thika and Club Blend, Meru.

The fans were entertained by Guinness Brand Ambassadors Genge artiste Jua Cali who performed at Club Blend and DJ Joe Mfalme alongside Adelle Onyango at Club Porkies and Bamboo respectively. 

This was the last Made of Black campaign activation in bars across various cities, and 20 Kenyans who shared the most inspiring stories online on why they are Made of Black have been chosen to take part in a photo shoot with Guinness Brand Ambassadors Jua Cali, DJ Amar (The Arkitekt), DJ Joe Mfalme and radio presenter Adelle Onyango. The photos will then be used on billboards across Kenya.

First E. African International Kids' Fashion Fest In Nairobi

THE first ever international kids' fashion festival in East & Central Africa is set to go down in Nairobi's Village Market this weekend.
Dubbed the Cool Kids Fashion Weekend Africa, the event was created after successfully starting kids modelling academy called Little Star Modeling Academy. 
The Academy is a collaboration of Kenya Fashion Awards Modelling Academy and Baby is Art Photography. 

The aim of the event is to support and mentor young kids with potential talents in modelling and in fashion.
"We are creating the awareness of local Kids Fashion Brands as well as local Kids fashion Lines and designed made in Kenya," says the organizers.

King Kaka Releases Sixth Video Off His Fourth Album

RAPPER King Kaka has released the sixth video off his fourth album, Legend of Kaka.

The song titled Ndio Kusema features singer Avril and rapper Femi One.
The song is all about letting people know who is in charge and what management unit Kaka Empire is capable of.

"With everyone trying to aim for the top spot it is about time we show them what Kaka Empire really stands for," he says.The rapper has in the past worked with both Avril and Femi One on Ninaweza and Ligi Soo respectively.
Ndio Kusema was produced by Sniper of G Ganji Records, mixed and mastered by Cedo of Pacho Studios and the video directed by Johnson Kyalo.

Watch Ndio Kusema on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSJxFh8-LLY

MP Orders Music Album For 100,000 Shillings

IF you think there is no money in music, think again!
Now, Likuyani Constituency Member of Parliament, Enoch Kibunguchi, has just ordered a music album to be delivered to him at a cost of Sh100,000.

Today, the honourable member of the National Assembly ordered for Papa Dennis' unreleased album, Wonder. He issued the Sh100,000 cheque for the album to Dennis' manager Sadat Muhindi of the Maliza Umaskini Foundation.

Sadat posted the above photo on Facebook of him receiving the cheque and captioned it: "Who said that music album don't sell in Kenya just received a cheque worthy 100k for album pre order from our mp hon Enoch kibunguchi. #wonder album launch."

The album is set to be launched on a live TV event tomorrow at Matunda Primary School in his hometown of Matunda near Kitale.
Artistes expected to perform at the event includes Tanzania's Christina Shusho, Daddy Owen, Gloria Muliro, Esther Wahome, DJ Euphoric, Uganda's Daisy Ejang, Mary Kerubo, Tonzi (Rwanda), Sir Loui (London) and Sarakasi Dancers.
Former Kenyan Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, will also grace the occasion.

Legendary DJ Paco Perez Returns To Kenya

LEGENDARY Spanish disc jockey Paco Perez, will be in town this weekend!
The veteran spin master has been accredited with revolutionizing the Kenyan deejaying industry, when he introduced new styles to the art in the 1980s.

Known for his love of Soul music, Perez cut a niche in the Kenyan clubs, especially at Nairobi's Boomerang Club, Museum Hill, where many dancing contests were being held.
Now, the "King of the Decks" is headed back to Kenya, a country he first landed into in 1974. The last time he was here was in 2011 where he held the famous Soul Train music session at the Gallileo Lounge.

This Saturday, the legend will be rocking the party during the official launch of the newly refurbished Deep West Lounge (formerly Deep West Resort) in Nairobi's Nairobi West suburb.
Other Kenyan veteran DJs among them Adams, Babz, Hussein Abdalla, Don Ben, Ken and Justin will also perform at the Soultrain Party, with special appearances from veteran dancers among them Cracker Munyao, Yellowman, Rarewatts and Charles Ng'ang'a. Charges are Sh1,000 at the door from 6pm.

Journalists Mourn Departed KTN News Anchor Ahmed Dharwesh

FOLLOWING the sudden demise of KTN's Swahili news anchor, Ahmed Dharwesh, after his struggle with diabetes on Monday evening, journalists and the entire media fraternity have been paying tribute to their fallen colleague. 

Classic 105's Maina Kageni said on twitter: "We loved you but God loved you more. Rest In Peace Ahmed Dharwesh."
Nation Media Group's Linus Kaikai wrote: "I mourn a gentle soul and an incredibly kind human Ahmed Dharwesh. A truly good person; a cameras natural and a newsroom dependable. RIP."
Nairobian's Grace Karanja said: "He was a humble soul. Always in high spirits and good mood. My first chit chat with him was at the office cafeteria when he asked me if I was joining KTN team. I was only a few days old at SG. He was dissapointed when I informed him 'Mimi ni mtu wa magazeti'. We always struck a conversation whenever we met. He was such a jovial chap. Ahmed Darwesh. RIP. It is such a sad morning. May God comfort your family. You have left a mark in the media industry. RIP."

The Standard's Nzau Musau wrote on Facebook: "Only last week we disrupted an urgent editorial meeting to make way for Ahmed Dharwesh to pray in the boardroom. We had not realized our meeting had coincided with his prayer schedule until he walked in with his prayer mat. We moved out to an adjacent empty office. We were right for its the last encounter I had with him. He was a prayerful soul, nice chap to get along with. A gentleman per excellence. The only man at SGL who said hi to me before knowing me (Truth is that most pple only engage you after they know your portfolio). Fare thee well, O weary traveler... You can now rest."
The Star's Martin Mwita wrote: "I wake up to the sad news of the passing on of an Icon, mentor and role model in the country's journalism world.
Ahmed Dharwesh, Fare Thee well Bro. My heartfelt condolences to his family and Friends and the entire media fraternity in Kenya. It is a big loss. Pray his family finds comfort in Allah... Inna lilahi wainna ilaihi rajiun."

Daily Nation's Isaac Swila said: "To say that I knew him at personal level would be a lie .However, what stands out for me, is his ever-present radiant smile .His untimely demise is shocking as much as its hurting .A big loss to the Standard Group family and the Kenyan media as a whole. May the Good Lord comfort his family and rest his soul in Eternal Peace. Till we meet again Ahmed Darwesh."
NTV's Wallace Kantai said: "Praying tonight for the family and for the soul of Ahmed Darwesh."
The Star reporter Adow Mohamed wrote: "Ahmed was HUMBLE, PARAYERFUL, TRUE TO HIS FAITH" is what all I read about my brother Ahmed Darwesh. That's all we can be before we meet our Creator, the Most High. Ahmed you indeed remained true and steadfast in your faith. May Jannah be your home..."

One of Dharwesh's childhood friends and an accomplished jazz singer Juma Tutu said: "Rest in peace my dear friend and former schoolmate.I remember the crazy stuff you used to do in school that many thought you had lost it.Then you became one of the finest news anchor in the Country.I celebrate you.Kwaheri kaka na tutaonana baadaye."

Wanuri Kahiu's Film Selected For Walt Disney Project

WANURI Kahiu is one of the most revered filmmakers Kenya has ever produced.

She has won multiple awards with her film work, and now, one of her collabo films has been selected for a major development project by Triggerfish Animation Studios, otherwise known as "the Pixar of South Africa".

The company has selected four feature film and four TV series projects for development from its Triggerfish Story Lab.
It established the lab earlier this year with the support of The Department of Trade and Industry and The Walt Disney Company to find new African stories and storytellers.
The Camel Racer from Wanuri and Nigeria's Nnedi Okorafor (pictured below) is among the feature films selected into the Story Lab. Others include Dropped from Ian Tucker, Lights from Kay Carmichael and The Wild Waste from Naseem Hoosen (all South Africa).

The TV series selected are KC’s Super 4 from Malenga Mulendema (Zambia), Mike Scott's Bru and Boegie, Ninja Princess from Marc Dey and Kelly Dillon and Wormholes from Lucy Heavens (all South Africa).
Triggerfish had planned to select three projects for film and TV, respectively, but increased that to four each, citing "the quality of the projects."

Award-Winning Thespian Harry Ebale Is Dead

AWARD-winning theatre and screen actor and director, Harry Ebale, passed away on Friday night after a heart attack.

Harry was well known for his starring performance as Kaggia in the play Kaggia and recently did an Africa Magic film titled Oyungi in which he was the main star.
He also played a role in the Hollywood Netflix-commissioned science fiction drama web television series, Sense8, in which part of it was filmed in Nairobi.  It was created, written and executive-produced by Andy and Lana Wachowski and J. Michael Straczynski.

His love for theatre, however, is the one thing he will be fondly remembered for.
SpiceRead wishes to condole his family, friends and fans. May his soul rest in peace.

Sarah K On A Motivation Mode

GOSPEL songstress, Sarah K, is one of the best gospel artistes in Kenya.
Among her most popular songs is Liseme, a doing that generated popularity across the greater East African region.

Today, Sarah has a special message to you all who feel talented...
She says: "Your talent determines what you can do... Your motivation determines how much you are willing to do. Your attitude determines how well you do it. All in all let it be for the glory of God."
Feeling blessed?

Diana Opoti Looks Stunning 'At 70'

IT'S day 70 of Diana Opoti's 100 Days of African Fashion today.
And the African fashion communication and strategist looks exhilarating in this photo by Nick Klaus.
The black and white dress was from the ‪Holiday Collection‬ of Kenyan fashionista, Wambui Mukenyi, while the leather saddle purse was from the India-based designer from Botswana, Koki Love.
Check out the picture below and let's have your thoughts...

Reina Plotting A Huge Music Comeback!

KENYAN female R&B recording artiste and songwriter, Grace Wakiuru aka Reina, is set to make a HUGE music comeback!

The sultry singer, known for some of her hit songs including Roho Yangu and See You Today, will any time from Tuesday next week launch her new jam titled Ninapokuona. 
"I had taken a break to have a game plan for my music career. During that time that I've been away, I was engaged in some other businesses, but I am fully back in music now," she tells SpiceRead.
Her latest song was produced by Teddy B and it's release will be followed by a video release in two weeks' time. It will be shot by One Montage under the directions of Hamza Omar.

She says: "I have a few more songs but I haven't decided exactly which one is next after Ninapokuona, because they are all good. But soon after releasing the video, I will announce my next song."
The singer is now working as an independent artiste, after parting ways with Chilli Inc. -- a music label owned by fellow singer Pilipili.

 "I left the label because I felt that I had grown musically and needed to spread my wings a little bit further," Reina says.

Gerriey Wainaina And Wife Celebrate First Anniversary

IT'S been a year since gospel singer and pro-sax player, Gerriey Wainaina, tied the knot with his wife, Aurora.

The beautiful couple celebrates its first anniversary today, and Wainaina had this message dedicated to his wife: "Happy Anniversary Mpenzi! It has been a wonderful year celebrating in love and marriage. I can't wait to start year #2 with you! I love you babe forever. GerrieywaVmilele."

He said on his IG page: "How time flies... Our #‎1st_anniversary13dec‬ ‪#‎gerrieywavmilele‬. I am so grateful to our God for blessing me with my joy, my beautiful wife... this is the first year among many years that we will cherish together till we are old and grey... I love you sweetheart... A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person."

Redsan's New Jam Draws Mixed Feelings Among Fans

KENYA'S ragga don, Swabri Mohammed aka Redsan, is at it again!

The baritoned singer, had been on a temporary hiatus, but has made his bold comeback with a banger titled Shoulder Back.
The beautiful video was directed by one of Nigeria's best video makers, Sesan.
By the time this article was being published, the video had generated a paltry 2,593 views on YouTube. 

We have sampled some of the comments posted thereon. Feel free to read through...
"Thumbs up Redsan.. You never disappoint." -Emy Lyz. 
"Breathless. Was eagerly waiting for this video. Great work." -Dennis Muga.
"wannabe jamaican nothing kenyan hehe. main reason why nigeria ug and tz beat us all the time. nice video though." -antivboy.
"This is what av been missing for quite a long tym.....BIG TUNE, COOLEST VIDEO, BADDER THAN BAD, REPLAY MODE!!!! KABOOOOOOM!!!" -Eagle James. 
"He Never Disappoints Big Up Redsun......the only thing He Lacks is Consistency..." -michael baraza. 
"WOW! this song is dope! Nice Redsan representing 254 in the world map." -IamkingArc.
Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kK3m1Cke1xI#t=17

Jose Chameleone, JB Maina & Ken Wa Maria For Koroga Fest

THE upcoming 10th edition of the bi-monthly music event, Koroga Festival, will host none other than East Africa's finest, Dr. Jose Chameleone!

The Tubonge hit-maker will line-up alongside two of Kenya's best benga heavyweights, Ken Wa Maria and JB Maina.

The event, slated for December 20, at the Arboretum Gardens in Nairobi, will also see two of Kenya's best spin masters DJ Andre and DJ Protege rock the party from the wheels of steel.

"Nairobi, Kenya, brace yourself for a Music Marathon live on Band! KOROGA FESTIVAL 10th Edition 20th December 2015 Arboretum Gardens. Let me know your Fav Song Will Play it Loud," says Chameleone.